How to Become a Personal Protection Officer in Texas: Level IV Step-by-Step Guide
Personal Protection Officer Training - Executive Protection USSA
- Written by Deltacon Admin
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Executive Protection
How to Become a Personal Protection Officer in Texas: Level IV Step-by-Step Guide
The Personal Protection Officer (PPO) license is Texas’s credential for executive protection and close-protection work. It is the most advanced individual license in Texas private security, building on Level II and Level III training with specialized Level IV instruction.
Here is how to get licensed and how to renew.
Note: Requirements change. Confirm current rules with Texas DPS Private Security before applying. Certain peace officers may be exempt from some training requirements.
What does a Personal Protection Officer do?
PPOs protect people, including executives, public figures, and private clients, by planning movements, assessing threats, and providing close protection, often armed.
Training required
Level II course and test (about 6 hours)
Level III course and test, a minimum of 45 hours, including a firearms course of fire
Level IV course and test, a minimum of 15 hours
The Level IV course must be administered by a licensed Level IV training school and taught by a licensed Level IV instructor.
Step-by-step: getting licensed
Complete Level II and Level III (see our Non-Commissioned and Commissioned Security Officer guides).
Complete the Level IV Personal Protection course and pass the test. It covers protective operations and the legal and ethical issues specific to close protection.
Demonstrate firearm proficiency within 90 days of your application date.
Submit your PPO application through the DPS TOPS portal https://tops.portal.texas.gov/psp-self-service/login/auth. with fingerprints and all supporting documents.
Receive your PPO license and pocket card before beginning protective work.
Step-by-step: renewing your PPO license
Complete 6 hours of continuing education in person, taught by a DPS-approved instructor.
Complete your handgun proficiency training. DPS has clarified that this is a separate requirement in addition to the 6 continuing education hours.
Submit your renewal application with proof of both, every two years.
Keep your documentation. Your employer retains proof of continuing education in your personnel file.
Get your training at the United States Security Academy (USSA)
All of this training and renewal can be obtained at Deltacon Security’s sister company, United States Security Academy (USSA). USSA and Deltacon Security are both subsidiaries of Deltacon Global Inc.
Veterans train free. Verified veterans receive unarmed security training 100% FREE, plus discounts on other training, a strong start toward a PPO career. Claim the veterans program here.
Texas DPS-licensed instructors in every area of Texas private security:
Level III Firearm Instructor, for the armed training and proficiency PPOs need
Level IV Personal Protection Instructor, for your Level IV course
Continuing Education (CE) Instructor, for your renewal hours
Alarm Level I Instructor
Contact USSA directly:
Email: info@ussa-academy.com
Phone: 832-260-6092
Courses: Browse USSA courses
Why Deltacon Security leads Texas private security
Protecting people requires the highest standard of training and judgment. With USSA as our sister company, Deltacon Security is committed to providing highly trained, high-caliber security professionals to the Texas private security industry. We lead the way.
Our training school gives us an advantage most security companies don’t have: a direct pipeline, and in-house Instructors licensed by the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Because our sister company trains to Texas DPS standards and beyond, Deltacon Security puts highly trained, high-caliber professionals on every post. We lead the way.
Ready to Start Your Security Career with Deltacon Security?
Once you have completed the applicable training and obtained your required Texas DPS individual license, consider taking the next step by exploring employment opportunities with Deltacon Security - https://www.deltacon1.com/apply
We are committed to recruiting and developing qualified security professionals who understand that integrity, discipline, professionalism, and accountability are essential to effective security operations.
Whether you are a first-time applicant, an experienced security officer, an aspiring armed security professional, or a military veteran transitioning into civilian employment, we encourage you to explore the opportunities available through Deltacon Global Inc. and its affiliated organizations.
Visit our website to learn more about our security services, training resources, and career opportunities.
Deltacon Global Inc. – We Lead the Way!
Train with United States Security Academy. Grow with Deltacon Security. Become part of a higher standard of professional security.
Regulatory Disclaimer: The training programs described in this article are intended to support applicants pursuing Texas private security licenses. Successful completion of training does not guarantee license approval. The Texas Department of Public Safety independently determines eligibility and issues individual licenses. Applicants must satisfy all applicable statutory, regulatory, background screening, training, examination, firearm proficiency, and company affiliation requirements. Training availability, veteran eligibility, and tuition discounts are subject to applicable program terms and verification.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Verify current requirements with Texas DPS.
